There is increasing awareness that many students entering STEM degree programs do not possess the assumed knowledge in mathematics required to succeed. This is not only evident to academics teaching mathematics in first year, but across other disciplines such as science and engineering, where students struggle to apply mathematical skills in the context of their discipline. Universities are developing a range of responses to the deficit in mathematical skills and knowledge, but the challenges of designing and delivering the STEM curriculum to under prepared students remains.

The forum will include keynote addresses by the Chief Scientist, Professor Ian Chubb and Professor Terry Speed, Mathematician and Principal Research Scientist at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research.This forum will be relevant to academics with an interest in teaching and learning across the science, technology, engineering and maths disciplines. It brings together prominent scientists and educators from different universities to engage in consideration and discussion of the current state of play. Participants will have an opportunity to share experiences and to develop strategies for moving the debate concerning forward. Presentations from key scientists and academics researching in this area will provide context for extended discussion and consideration of possible solutions.

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First Year in Maths · A network for academics teaching mathematics in first-year degree programs